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Maidstone gymnast James Hall shows his class after missing out on the Paris Olympics

06:57, 24 June 2024

updated: 06:58, 24 June 2024

Pegasus gymnast James Hall issued a classy response after missing out on a place at the Olympics.

Hall, 28, was overlooked by Great Britain selectors for this summer’s Paris Games.

James Hall on the parallel bars at the European Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Italy this year. Picture: Simone Ferraro
James Hall on the parallel bars at the European Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Italy this year. Picture: Simone Ferraro

He is, however, on the reserve list as cover for Max Whitlock, Joe Fraser, Jake Harman, Harry Hepworth and Luke Whitehouse.

Hall, who helped Britain finish fourth in the team event at the Tokyo Olympics, took the selectors’ decision with good grace.

“Well, I didn’t quite make it as part of the team for Paris this time around but I am extremely proud of the effort I gave,” Hall, from Maidstone, wrote on Instagram.

“I’ll be manning the role of reserve, of which, I’m honoured.

“The lads selected will do an incredible job and every one of them without a doubt deserves a spot on that team.

“Ionut Trandaburu (coach) and I have left no stone unturned in this build-up and, in my opinion, we have produced some of my finest gymnastics to date and I can ask for no more.

“I’ve genuinely enjoyed it and I couldn’t have asked for a better team behind me at Pegasus.

“In my old age and wisdom, I don’t think there’s any lesson to be learnt here but I believe there is a lesson I can teach to any young athlete.

“While it may be difficult missing out on the team and being reserve, it’s an important role and I still have a duty to my team.

“I will be putting 100% in the build-up and truly believe I can help them with team spirit and a steady hand in their journey to the Games.”

The Games take place from July 26-August 11.

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